Monday, April 9, 2012

Thank You

I just wanted to post my current status and to thank everyone for all their thoughts, prayers, and support over these past few weeks.  I was very humbled and inspired by all the wonderful comments everyone left on my "Overwhelmed" post a few weeks ago.  It's amazing how people you have never met before (in person) can connect with you in such a special way and make the day seem that much brighter.  So, thank you to everyone who has kept me in their thoughts.  It really does mean so much to me!

I am happy, yet hesitant, to report that I am feeling much better!  Within the past two weeks I have had two surgeries, the second of which was successful in removing the largest of my kidney stones.  They also took the stent out which was causing the bulk of my discomfort and pain.  The doctor said I could slowly start training again this week so that is very positive.  I still have some small stones in my left kidney and a medium sized stone in my right kidney, but fingers crossed, those should be able to pass on their own.

This break from training has left me very uneasy about the early races I had planned.  I am 99% sure I won't be doing Glass City Marathon.  Although I did the bulk of my training and completed a 17, 18, and 19 mile run, my plan called for three 20 mile runs and I was unable to complete those.  I know I could finish the race, but I definitely wouldn't be getting the PR I was hoping for.  Plus after no training for over two weeks I don't know how bad the marathon will hurt if I just do it to do it.  I am definitely not seeking out additional injuries at this point. Thankfully I didn't register for it yet, so I am not out any race fees, but I really did want to do it.  If I do, it will be a very last minute decision.

Knoxville is also still up in the air.  I am confident in my swimming and the running doesn't scare me, but I know my bike fitness is definitely not where it should be.  Again, I missed too many key workouts that have left me feeling unprepared at best.  I am still going for sure, but may drop down to the Olympic distance, or depending on how these next two weeks go I may just volunteer and not race at all.

I think the other thing that has me uneasy about this race is that it will be the first time Matt won't be there with me.  I always look forward to seeing Matt out on the course and him coming back to cheer me to the finish or run the finish in with me.  He is my comfort...he makes everything ok.  Even if I were to come in last place I know he would be there waiting for me and I wouldn't have to finish alone.  So, I am left with this fear that without Matt I will be left all by myself on race day.  I know that's not reality, but it is enough to get in my head and mess with my confidence.        

But I know that the most important thing to do is to have fun.  This is a hobby, my hobby, and even if I am not the most prepared or not in shape to get a PR, the least I can do is just do it because I love it!

Thanks again for all your thoughts and well wishes!!!  

8 comments:

Matty O said... Best Blogger Tips

Just get a few long rides in and everything will be alright ;)

Susan and Ashley will be there too! So you will have people you know waiting for you at the finish!

M said... Best Blogger Tips

Oh wow - two surgeries? You poor thing. You have def been in my thoughts. As for the races, just go out there and do it because you CAN. The adrenaline of going solo may give you a whole new appreciation for racing. Just go out there and rock it with what you can and what you have. That's all anyone can do anyway!

TriMOEngr said... Best Blogger Tips

Many more wishes for good health. Hang in there and listen to your body (less so your brain - don't psyche yourself out). You'll do fine either way, but if it will mess with your brain more to do "poorly" (laughing a bit here after my 2nd to last place finish this weekend), then pass and just cheer on your friends. I'm sure they'd love a good sherpa.

Ironman By Thirty said... Best Blogger Tips

You are going to be very pleasantly surprised how quickly it all comes back. I think we all (triathletes) have this fear that a week or two off is a huge setback, but honestly I think it can be one of the best things for the body. Now, I know I say that but don't ever do it unless forced by injury or sickness. haha

Why the heck is MattyO not going to be there??? Geez... what kind of husband is he any ways. haha!

Glad to hear that you are on the mend. Did you ever get a reasoning behind the problems in the first place or a way to avoid it in the future???

Heather-O said... Best Blogger Tips

@Ironman By Thirty

I know, he's a terrible husband, right?!?!?!

Once I pass all the stones I have to go back for a urinalysis and blood work. Until then, MUST.DRINK.MORE.WATER!!!!!!!

Heidi @BananaBuzzbomb said... Best Blogger Tips

Oh boy. I can totally identify with your situation. =( A couple yrs ago I had a stone that wouldn't pass. Long story short I had to have surgery. Never fun. Needless to say I still have stones and like you, just hope they'll pass on their own. Fingers crossed for both of us.

I've been training for the Glass City half and my recent sickness over this past weekend has thrown me for a loop. I had no plans to PR so I'm going to follow through with running but I'm hoping that it won't be a horrible experience =/

I'm sure whatever race plans you decide on, you'll do awesome!

Jennie said... Best Blogger Tips

So glad to hear that you are feeling better! :)

Kacie Darden said... Best Blogger Tips

I don't know if you have decided yet about knoxville, BUT, I will say that being on the team is AWESOME out on the course. I also love racing with my hubby, but being at a Rev3 race is amazing on the team. There is SO much love, support, and cheering for each other. It is awesome!